According to human rights group Ain O Salish Kendra, last year witnessed the highest number of extrajudicial killings recorded in our country's history. Other serious human rights abuses such as enforced disappearances also continued throughout 2018.

Every citizen of our country should be worried about these findings. It is indicative of the overall human rights situation in Bangladesh. It also shows how our law enforcing agencies are not particularly bothered about following the legal process. It almost seems as if they have been given a carte blanche when it comes to dealing with criminals or alleged criminals.

This dangerous mindset and approach to dealing with matters of law and order can deeply hurt people's confidence in the rule of law and the overall judicial system.

What is even more disturbing is the overall indifference in society regarding this problem. We seem to have almost accepted it as a part of our daily lives.

Every man or woman deserves a fair trial and must be given a fair chance to defend himself or herself in a court of law.

Monirul Kabir, By e-mail